Slumped over
wheel of Jeep

A DRIVER found slumped in the front of her Jeep was so intoxicated she could hardly walk, a court heard.

Karen Suzanne Palmer, 43, who admitted failing to provide a specimen of breath and obstructing police, was warned by High Peak magistrates on Monday, that custody was an option.

Magistrate Michael Bishop said: “This is a serious offence. You were clearly in an obvious state of intoxication, slumped over the passenger seat in your car.

“Clearly you had difficulty walking to the police car you were so intoxicated.” Adjourning the case, until October 17, for reports to be prepared Mr Bishop said: “Custody must be considered as an option.”

Jennifer Fitzgerald prosecuting, said on September 8 police had been alerted to a no damage collision on Macclesfield Road, Whaley Bridge and made their way to Tesco car park where the vehicle was located with Palmer slumped in the front.

She was given several opportunities to provide breath test but officers believed she wasn’t trying.

“When handcuffed the defendant began to struggle and resist. She was swearing and tried to punch one of the officers,” said Ms Fitzgerald.

Once at Buxton police station the defendant flatly refused to provide a breath test.

Kirsten Collings defending said: “She pulled in at Tesco because she was concerned about her driving.”

She told the court that alcohol had become a problem for Palmer, a married mother of one, who had sought help through her GP and was undergoing counselling.

Magistrates imposed an interim driving ban on Palmer, of Stocks Cottage, Kettleshulme, who had a similar previous conviction in 2008.